87 Sea Ray fires but does not Run

[Sea Ray 87]

Help! 140 I.O. 4 banger has always ran great... until now. Just now attempting startup been soo busy. It cranks and turns over, does get gas Ok in the carb, it fires OK (getting spark from coils and distributor system). But just won't take off.
It has been really WET... could this be a relay switch? If so, then likelyone do we check and howwith a volt ohm meter (note: if need be a professional will be obtained, but tryin to get this nailed b4 July 4th weekend). Anyone know of good reference material and/or place to buy if needed?
Please note: mechanic friend ran engine ok today, but only by running a wire between the positive battery terminal and positive side of Coil (just a brief test).
Any ideas greatly appreciated! This looks like a good site, with some sharp pros on-line. Thanks and bless the U.S.

 

[chiefalen]

Welcome aboard !

Some one ran a jumper wire to the coil from the pos side of the battery to the pos side of the coil and it ran ok ?

Disconnect the battery cables. Then follow the pos cable and clean as you go make sure every connection is clean.

When you get to the starter make sure you don't mess up the wires where they go.

I do one at a time. And replace it.

When done follow the neg cable to the main ground on the bell housing and remove and clean.

Your friend open up the cap and clean inside and, set the points or cleaned them ? He check the shaft to see if it was loose.

All the plug wires good and seated well.